-There are a lot of freelancers in town.
-The city is affordable (L.A. affordable?!).
-Health insurance is cheap and easy (it is now, with Obamacare).

NerdWallet notes that nearly one in five of us (17.9 percent) are independent contractors in L.A. It says:

From independent filmmakers, screenwriters, production assistants and actors, freelancing is a major part of Los Angeles culture. Because so many people do freelance work, there are a lot of outlets for freelancers to connect, including meet-up groups and dozens of co-working spaces. Plus, quality of life here is high with plenty of sunny days and quick escapes to the beaches in Santa Monica.

We beat Portland, Miami, and more. New York is nowhere to be found. Here's the list: